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Newcastle Herald
Newcastle Herald
National
Nick Bielby

Hunter ranks fifth in state's storm-related insurance claims: survey

Preparations: Hunter SES members fill sandbags ahead of a previous forecast downpour in Newcastle. Picture: Max Mason-Hubers

The Hunter's State Emergency Service crews where not overly troubled by gale-forced winds and stormy weather across the region on Sunday afternoon and into the evening - but the rescue agency says it is prepared for possible storms later this week.

The Hunter SES teams received only 17 calls for help across the weekend, despite wind gusts of up to 74km/h recorded at Nobbys on Sunday afternoon.

An SES spokesperson told the Newcastle Herald most calls were for minor jobs - mainly reports of fallen branches.

A possible thunderstorm is forecast for the Hunter on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Newcastle and the Hunter have featured in fifth place on a list of the state's most storm-affected regions following an NRMA Insurance survey.

The results of the survey showed that Newcastle and the Hunter made up 6.1 per cent of storm-related insurance claims during the 2019-20 financial year.

The region ranked one place behind the Central Coast, from which 7.3 per cent of storm claims came during the period.

Central Northern Sydney - the Hills District and Hornsby areas - ranked number one, accounting for 12.7 per cent of storm claims, according to the results.

Within the Newcastle and Hunter region - which included part of the Mid North Coast - Forster was ranked as the most storm-prone, followed by Medowie, Stroud, Ashtonfield, East Maitland, Merewether, Caves Beach, Corlette, Metford and Wallsend.

NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York last week urged communities across the state to prepare for stormy weather over the warmer months, saying it was "crucial" to be ready.

"Our volunteers are always ready to spring into action and help when needed," Commissioner York said.

"But it is equally important that communities do their part to make sure they themselves are prepared.

"Simple steps like removing loose items from your front and back yards, keeping cars away from trees and power lines, or undercover where possible, and being equipped with an emergency kit can make all the difference."

NRMA Insurance Executive General Manager Claims Luke Gallagher said the La Nina weather system Australia was experiencing meant people could expect more severe storms and intense rain across NSW in the coming months.

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